To solve the equation $y^2 = 169$, we need to find the values of $y$ that satisfy this equation. Here's the step-by-step solution:

1. Start with the given equation: $y^2 = 169$

2. Take the square root of both sides to solve for $y$: $y = \pm \sqrt{169}$

3. Calculate the square root of 169: $\sqrt{169} = 13$

4. Therefore, the solutions are: $y = 13 \quad \text{or} \quad y = -13$

So, the solutions to the equation $y^2 = 169$ are $y = 13$ and $y = -13$.

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Here are 5 related questions that expand on this information:

1. What are the solutions to the equation $x^2 = 225$?
2. How would you solve the equation $y^2 = 144$?
3. What are the steps to solve the equation $z^2 = 81$?
4. If $a^2 = 196$, what are the possible values of $a$?
5. How do you solve $b^2 = 100$ and what are its solutions?

Tip: When solving quadratic equations like $y^2 = k$, always remember to consider both the positive and negative roots of $k$.